Heraklion: Finikia Horse Riding Tour with Lunch or Dinner

Heraklion: Finikia Horse Riding Tour with Lunch or Dinner – A Genuine Crete Experience

Imagine riding through Crete’s sun-drenched mountains, with sweeping views that stretch as far as the eye can see, all while feeling the gentle sway of a well-trained horse beneath you. For around $78 per person, this 4.5-hour guided horseback tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and authentic local flavors. Starting from the charming village of Finikia, a short drive from Heraklion, you’ll visit legendary sites associated with Greek mythology, and end your day with a hearty meal accompanied by homemade wine.

What we love most? First, the personalized approach—the guides make sure both beginners and experienced riders feel safe and comfortable, which is rare for a tour open to all levels. Second, the culinary highlight—a generous, traditional Cretan lunch or dinner served in a peaceful garden, with fresh ingredients straight from the farm.

One thing to consider is that transportation isn’t included unless you request it, so if you’re staying outside Heraklion or Malia, you’ll need to arrange your own transfer or pay extra for a pickup service. But if you’re an animal lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply want to experience Crete beyond the usual tourist spots, this tour is a wonderful choice.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even as a solo traveler eager to see Crete from a different perspective, you’ll find this experience well worth your time. The mixture of scenic riding, mythology-inspired vistas, and hearty local food makes it quite a special outing.

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Key Points

Authentic Crete experience combining horseback riding, mythological sights, and traditional cuisine
Suitable for all levels, from complete beginners to experienced riders
Well-organized with friendly guides and careful horse matching
Includes a delicious meal with homemade wine, often highlighted as a tour highlight
Flexible options for pickup and drop-off from certain areas
Accessible to kids and families who want a relaxed, outdoor adventure

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A Deep Dive into the Finikia Horse Riding Tour

Setting the Scene: Crete’s Mountains and Mythology

Starting just outside Heraklion, this tour takes you into the Finikia mountains, an area that offers stunning panoramic views and a sense of tranquility away from crowded beaches. The guide will meet you at the farm, where you’ll first enjoy a coffee or tea—a simple but thoughtful touch that sets a relaxed tone.

Before mounting your horse, you’ll receive a basic riding lesson—a crucial step for beginners and a reassurance for those with more experience. The guides are multilingual, speaking English, German, and Russian, ensuring clear communication no matter your language background.

What to Expect on the Ride

After the briefing, you’ll set out on your two-hour horseback journey. Expect to ride through mountain trails with gentle inclines—perfect for taking in the scenery at a leisurely pace. One of the highlights is reaching the top of the Finikia mountains, where your guide will encourage a well-deserved break.

This stop is more than just a photo opportunity; it’s a chance to breathe in the fresh mountain air, admire the far-reaching views, and learn about the mythical connection to Zeus, the Greek god said to sleep in the nearby Archanes mountain. As one visitor said, “We could see the mountain where Zeus sleeps,” highlighting the interesting blend of natural beauty and mythological lore.

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Authentic Greek Hospitality and Food

After the ride, you’ll return to the stables, where a delicious traditional Cretan meal awaits. The food is described as abundant and homemade, often featuring vegetables and herbs from the farm, and served alongside local wine. Visitors consistently praise the generous portions and high quality of the food, with some saying it’s “probably the best they’ve eaten in Crete.”

Guests also enjoy the garden setting, which is peaceful and perfect for relaxing after the ride. You can help yourself to more wine, or spend a few extra minutes with the horses and watch the farm’s friendly dogs and goats.

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Evening and Special Options

Depending on the time slot you choose, you might find yourself riding under the moonlight, which adds a magical touch to the experience. The tour is flexible, and the afternoon ride is especially popular for its peaceful, twilight atmosphere.

Who Will Love This Tour

This experience is ideal for animal lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those interested in Crete’s mythological ties. It’s also perfect for families with children, as the horses are well cared for, and the guides are attentive to beginners. The moderate pace makes it accessible to most, including those with no prior riding experience.

Practical Details

Price: $78 per person, which includes horse riding, lunch or dinner, homemade wine, and coffee or tea
Duration: 4.5 hours, with flexible start times
Group Size: Typically small, personalized groups, with guides speaking multiple languages
Transport: Optional pickup from Malia to Amoudara; other areas may incur extra charges
Restrictions: Max weight 110 kg, suitable for children and adults alike
Weather considerations: The riding schedule may change due to weather for safety and horse welfare

What We Found Most Impressive

Based on reviews and the experience overview, the guides stand out as a major asset—friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely caring for both the horses and guests. Multiple reviewers mention how safe and well looked after they felt, even if it was their first time riding.

The stunning mountain views make the ride memorable, complemented by the authentic farm-to-table meal that’s often described as “abundant” and “delicious,” adding immense value to the experience. The homemade wine and local food are seen as a highlight—something that elevates this tour from a simple ride to a genuine taste of Crete.

Many reviews emphasize the warm hospitality of Irene and her family, making guests feel like part of the family rather than just travelers. This authentic atmosphere is what sets this experience apart.

Who Should Consider This Tour

If you’re after a relaxed outdoor activity that combines nature, culture, and cuisine, this tour fits the bill. It’s suitable for beginners and families wanting a gentle ride, as well as seasoned riders looking for beautiful scenery in a friendly environment.

Those who value authentic local food and wine will be pleased, as the meal is often highlighted as a true culinary highlight. Conversely, if your main goal is high-adrenaline riding or extreme adventure, this may not satisfy your needs in terms of intensity.

Travelers who enjoy small-group experiences and personalized attention will find this tour exceptionally well-organized and warm. Plus, those interested in Greek mythology will appreciate the myth-inspired scenery and stories shared by the guides.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to accommodate riders of all levels. Beginners are given basic riding lessons, and the horses are well cared for and matched to your experience.

Can children participate?
Yes, this tour is suitable for young kids as long as they meet the weight limit of 110 kg. The pace is gentle, making it a nice family activity.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and casual clothes are recommended. Bring a camera for the views, and a sense of adventure.

Are transfers included?
Optional pickup from Malia to Amoudara is available if requested in advance, but other areas might require an extra fee or self-arranged transport.

How long does the lunch or dinner last?
The meal is served after the ride, in a lovely garden setting, and is described as plentiful and delicious, often with homemade wine.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The schedule may change due to weather conditions to ensure guest and horse safety.

Final Thoughts

This horseback riding tour in Crete offers a genuine chance to experience the island’s natural beauty, mythology, and warm hospitality. You’ll enjoy a scenic ride through mountain trails that are suitable for all levels, with breathtaking views and a relaxed pace that allows you to truly take it all in. The authentic farm-to-table meal with local wine makes it feel like a genuine taste of Crete’s rural life.

It’s especially well-suited for animal lovers, foodies, and families looking for a memorable outdoor activity. The guides’ friendliness and care create a welcoming atmosphere, making it more than just a ride—it’s a window into Crete’s soul.

If you value authentic experiences, stunning scenery, and good value, this tour will probably rank high on your list. Just remember to book in advance, especially if you want pickup service, and come ready for a peaceful, scenic adventure that combines the best of Crete’s landscapes and its warmhearted hospitality.